College Costs in Athens, TN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Athens, Tennessee. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$32,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$765
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Athens Overview
Population
14,007
Student Population
844 (6.0%)
Cost of Living Index
82.4 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
36/100
Transit Score
22/100
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
College Cost Calculator for Athens
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$92,708
Total After Financial Aid
$92,708
Annual Cost
$23,177
Annual After Aid
$23,177
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $92,708 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,053 |
| Total Interest | $33,614 |
| Total Loan Cost | $126,322 |
Universities in Athens
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Athens State University | Public | $10,153 |
| Athens Community College | Community | $4,736 |
Athens has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Athens vs. National Average
| Category | Athens | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,100 | $10,940 | -$840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $765 | $1,050 | -$285 |
| Cost of Living Index | 82.4 | 100 | -17.599999999999994 |
Athens's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Athens
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
844 students
Athens has a total population of 14,007, with approximately 844 college students (6.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Athens offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Athens
$31,036
Starting Salary
3.8%
Unemployment Rate
45%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Athens earn a median starting salary of $31,036, which is -$3,964 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $92,708 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,368 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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